Has anyone else had problems with Smartbones??

Elei

Elei

Premium Member
I recently bought a package of Smartbones from Petco for Kip. I have given them to my other dogs a few times, but this was first time for Kip. After Kip had his upset tummy incident, I was concerned about blockages, so I hoped smartbones would be safer than harder chews like rawhide and tendons. They are supposed to be completely digestible and 'safer than rawhide'.

Well.. the first time I gave him a smartbone (several days ago), he threw up several times that night. By morning he was completely fine. I didn't think it was the smartbone, but yesterday I gave him another one, and guess what - last night he threw up several times again. I could see bits of chewed up smartbone, but no large chunks. So I don't think the problem was a blockage.

I am so tired after staying up for hours with a puking puppy. At least Kip seems fine today, but I am a zombie. No more smartbones for Kip! I think I'll stick with kongs and the occasional rawhide.

I'm going to see if I can return the package to Petco. I don't know if Kip is just sensitive, or if its a bad batch.
 
I've had the same problem with Smartbones. In fact, they triggered Checkers' recent stomach upset too. I also saw pieces of them when she threw up. I've used them before...I did an interview with the president of the company when they came out who assured me they were made in the safest way possible even though it's overseas. I wonder if something has changed in the formula or manufacture.

Honestly, I think we're better off with good quality rawhide made in the U.S. There are several brands I get that my dogs do fine with. I'm glad Kip is better and I just wouldn't use them for him.
 
Ann said:
I've had the same problem with Smartbones. In fact, they triggered Checkers' recent stomach upset too
Click to expand...
That's interesting that you had the same problem. Yep, I'm completely scared off Smartbones now!!

I agree about rawhide. I know it can be dangerous, but I've been giving all my dogs USA rawhide for years with no issues. Mainly I want something to satisfy his urge to chew, help occupy him, and cleaning teeth is a plus too. He isn't crazy about rawhide, which is probably for the best.
 
Elei said:
I have noticed that Kip is a bit of a delicate flower;) Which is funny because my first Sheltie had a cast iron stomach. She ate a whole container of joint supplements and half a tray of chocolate brownies with no ill effects. Well she was fine - I freaked out!
Click to expand...

LOL we used to say that about Asta - that she was a delicate flower. As to your other Sheltie... :eek2:
If Kip isn't super into chewing, you might smear just a little PB on the rawhide to get him started. Once they get it softened up they seem to like it better.
 
Poor Kip! Poor you!
I certainly understand you dilemma! Beau has a rock iron and Liam is the exact opposite! Glad he is feeling better!
 
Elei said:
I recently bought a package of Smartbones from Petco for Kip. I have given them to my other dogs a few times, but this was first time for Kip. After Kip had his upset tummy incident, I was concerned about blockages, so I hoped smartbones would be safer than harder chews like rawhide and tendons. They are supposed to be completely digestible and 'safer than rawhide'.

Well.. the first time I gave him a smartbone (several days ago), he threw up several times that night. By morning he was completely fine. I didn't think it was the smartbone, but yesterday I gave him another one, and guess what - last night he threw up several times again. I could see bits of chewed up smartbone, but no large chunks. So I don't think the problem was a blockage.

I am so tired after staying up for hours with a puking puppy. At least Kip seems fine today, but I am a zombie. No more smartbones for Kip! I think I'll stick with kongs and the occasional rawhide.

I'm going to see if I can return the package to Petco. I don't know if Kip is just sensitive, or if its a bad batch.
Click to expand...
I just recently read something about another chew made by Blue Buffalo (dental bones) that caused similar problems (I believe it caused hemorrhagic gastritis). I would avoid giving anymore, perhaps contact the company. I avoid these things at all cost, while they trumpet them as being a safe alternative to rawhide in reality they are just as dangerous given that you really have no idea what's in them. Stick to something natural like dehydrated sweet potato chews maybe.
 
My dogs love Honest Kitchen Wolf Fish Skins. They are very digestible and keep their teeth clean, but they definitely don't last as long as rawhide. I also buy chews made from the hair of coconut hulls. They look like hairier rope chews. My Jesse really likes them, but he can make a mess with them!;) Glad to hear that Kip is okay. It is hard to figure out what is safe for our pups, but I found a pet store that tries to deal only in reputable all natural pet products made in the U.S. and stick with that.
 
You must log in or register to reply here.
Back
Top